State Bar Association Calls For Repeal of Defense Of Marriage Act

The State Bar Association released today its state and federal legislative priorities for this year and urged the governor, state Legislature and the state congressional delegation to act on its recommendations, Gannett’s Haley Viccaro reports.

The legislative priorities focus on increased funding for state and federal courts, legal services for the poor, laws against wrongful convictions, repealing the federal Defense of Marriage Act and strengthening the juvenile justice system.

“The State Bar’s 2013 legislative priorities seek to strengthen public trust and confidence in the justice system,” said State Bar President Seymour James in a statement.

James said although Congress has delayed the 8.2 percent funding cuts for the federal court system, they would be devastating when they take effect in two months. He said the State Bar believes the cuts will limit access to justice for people and businesses.

State and federal legislative priorities both include ensuring the integrity of the justice system by properly funding the courts to function effectively.

Some state legislative priorities for this year are sealing certain criminal records for misdemeanor and non-violent crimes and revising the not-for-profit corporation law to encourage organizations to maintain investment assets in the state.

Federal legislative priorities for the year include providing equal rights for same-sex couples by repealing the Defense of Marriage Act and supporting funds to enhance civic education programs among the nation’s elementary and secondary schools.